FAAST Blast

FAA Updates Flight Training Regulations In an effort to enhance safety, respond to changes in the aviation industry, and reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens, the FAA published a final rule which amends regulations on pilot, flight instructor, and pilot school certification.

Among the amendments in the rule published Aug. 31 is the ability for student pilots to train concurrently for both the private pilot certificate and instrument rating, and for flight schools to apply for a combined private pilot certification and instrument rating course. In addition, the rule will: Allow pilot schools to use internet-based training programs without requiring schools to have a physical ground training facility; revise the definition of “complex airplane;” and allow the use of airplanes with throwover control wheels for expanded flight training. The final rule also amends the FAA’s procedures for converting a foreign pilot license to a U.S. pilot certificate. These amendments become effective Oct. 31, 2011. To view the final rule, click here or go to www.federalregister.gov/a/2011-22308.

FAA Issues Revised Cessna AD and Cirrus SAIBOn Aug. 26, 2011, the FAA issued a revised Airworthiness Directive (AD) for select Cessna 150/152 models as well as a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) for Cirrus Models SR20, SR22 and SR22T. The Cessna AD addresses a required change to the rudder stop modification kit. To allow for full rudder travel, new kits will use longer rivets and allow for material to be removed from the rudder horn assembly. The AD is available at www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/airworthiness_directives/.The Cirrus SAIB addresses an airworthiness concern for a possible asymmetric flap and flap actuator overextension condition in the abovementioned models. The FAA recommends owners perform the actions of Service Bulletin 2X-27-16 R1 at the next scheduled maintenance, annual inspection, or within the next 12 months.

Relieving the Aches and Pains of Aging GA AircraftAging is a fact of life that humans and aircraft alike must face. However, whereas humans are better able to heed warning signs of an impending health issue, aircraft are less likely to divulge any critical details of an age or fatigue-related ailment. But with the right tools and a proactive plan of inspecting and maintaining, you can help keep your aircraft safe and sound for years to come. The article “Too Old to Fly?”on page 25 of the new issue of FAA Safety Briefing examines this very issue and provides readers with number of tips and resources to help owners keep their aircraft young, spry, and able to fly.